1997 Nissan Maxima vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Nissan Maxima (177 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (127 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 2012 Honda Civic has automatic transmission and 1997 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 1997 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Nissan Maxima | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Nissan | Honda |
| Model | Maxima | Civic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1339 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
